The Wood White is very rare in Dorset and not common in England. Some new habitat has been created on coastal undercliff by pinning areas prone to landslip and, as of 2021, there was evidence of breeding there. Work will be on-going to ensure its survival via appropriate management of the area.
Where to see
- Habitat: In Dorset, only known on the coastal undercliff. Otherwise, mainly woodland rides and clearings.
- Caterpillar foodplants: Meadow Vetchling, Bitter Vetch, Tufted Vetch, Bird's-foot Trefoil
- Best places: Lyme Regis Undercliff. Please note, there have been landslips in this area, and searching for the butterfly may be hazardous. There used to be a colony at Powerstock Wood, but there have been no sightings since 2013, so it is probably gone from that location.
Distribution map
Wood White was recorded from these 1km squares in Dorset (2020-24).
- Key:
- 1 record
- 2-9 records
- 10+ records
When to see
Two generations: the main one in late May/early June, the second in late July/early August.
Sightings by month (last 5 years)*
This year and last*
What to look for
The wings of the Wood White are much longer in relation to their width, and more oval than any other white. It is also the smallest of our whites. It is yellowish-white with some indistinct markings.
Its flight is different to other whites: the wing flaps are very slow and the flight appears to be slow and fluttering.
The Wood White rests with its wings closed, but you may get a glimpse of the upper side when it flies, or see the butterfly with strong backlighting, when you can make out that the males have black wing tips, while the females have just a dusting of grey scales.
Photo gallery
Click thumbnails to view full-size images.
Wood Whites. Photo: Ken Dolbear
Wood White. Photo: Mark Pike
Wood White laying an egg, which you can see. Photo: Becky Williamson
Wood Whites. Photo: Brian Arnold.
Wood White: an unusual view, with open wings. Photo: Brian Arnold